Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.